Microdosing magic mushrooms: a new hope for depression?
NCT ID NCT05259943
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested whether very small, non-hallucinogenic doses of psilocybin (the active ingredient in magic mushrooms) can safely improve mood in people with major depression. Thirty-nine adults received either psilocybin or a placebo, then switched. Researchers measured changes in depression, anxiety, and physical symptoms using a standard questionnaire.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- psilocybin (a psychedelic compound found in magic mushrooms)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a new way to ease depression symptoms without the intense effects of full-dose psychedelics.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-phase trial with only 39 people, so results may not apply to everyone. The tiny dose might not be strong enough to help, and long-term effects are unknown.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Psych Research
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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